The London 2012 Olympics are fast approaching, and in an effort to further strengthen links between the arts and the ultimate sporting occasion, the public are being encouraged to nominate as Olympic Torch bearers those who have made a difference to community arts and culture.

The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay will be a 70-day event, starting at Land’s End on May 19, 2012 and travelling thousands of miles through hundreds of UK communities. Although torchbearers can be nominated for their contributions in a number of fields, Lloyds TSB, as National Presenting Partner of the Olympic Torch Relay, is particularly interested in promoting “unsung heroes” of the arts world.

The focus on arts and culture in connection with the Olympics is in keeping with the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, which aims to “give everyone in the UK a chance to be part of London 2012 and inspire creativity across all forms of culture”.

So if you know an inspirational youth music leader, a trailblazing community conductor, or a busker who brings a smile to your face on the morning commute, visit www.lloydstsb.com/carrytheflame before the September 12, 2011 deadline to make your nomination.